poem: A Benediction for Jelani

A light that bright radiates the Holy. Not meant for earthly realms A light that bright Shines beyond eternity. And now returning to the stellate sun We remain basking in luminous presence Forever changed By a light that bright. And having glimpsed such A brilliant fire Let us turn now To God, and to one… Read More

POEM: An Open Letter to the Coach Who Cares

You noticed, and you named it. Over the season, he started to lose his spark.   I am profoundly grateful that you noticed the change. You even encouraged him… “if basketball is not your thing, maybe something else…” You had no way to know, it’s not about the game. It’s about learning how to live… Read More

POEM: Esau in Midrash for 2020

Imagine if you will, America as a woman, wife in barren pose. Within her there grows, a future. Two nations in one womb. Brothers divided. Birthed together in conflict. The stronger pulled back by the younger’s jealousy. Esau made for the labor of the field, Jacob for the quiet tents. Brute strength plotted against a… Read More

poem: THE INVISIBLE CLOAK

I cloak my son in whiteness create the shield whenever I can equating… mistaking… invisible with invincible somehow believing I can save him from history disguised as destiny. I cloak my son in whiteness it seems the only means I have for safeguarding his protection one more year, or month, or hour until that moment… Read More

The Gates of Hope

This poem, by Victoria Safford, is speaking to my heart today. The Gates of Hope:Our mission is to plant ourselves at the gates of Hope—Not the prudent gates of Optimism,Which are somewhat narrower.Not the stalwart, boring gates of Common Sense;Nor the strident gates of Self-Righteousness,Which creak on shrill and angry hinges(People cannot hear us there;… Read More

SYNOD SCHOOL, Monday.

This week I have the privilege of teaching a course called “Artmaking: The Spiritual Practice of Creation.” Each day we will experiment with 2 different art expressions. Today, it was found poetry thru altered books and collage poetry. Here are some of the amazing results: